NYU Langone Health raised $5.6 million at its annual Finding A Cure for Epilepsy and Seizures (FACES) Gala to fund epilepsy research and the advancement of new therapies. Held on March 5, 2018, at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers, longtime FACES supporters Sukey and Mike Novogratz chaired this year’s gala. Mike Novogratz also serves as a trustee at NYU Langone.

Deborah and Bill Harlan were honored at the event for their contributions to epilepsy research over the past 15 years. “With the generous support of Deborah and Bill Harlan, FACES has contributed to hundreds of research initiatives that have led to important changes in the field,” said Orrin Devinsky, MD, professor of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry, founder of FACES, and director of NYU Langone’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center. “We are excited to honor and celebrate them tonight to show our appreciation for the time, energy, and philanthropic support they provide for our Comprehensive Epilepsy Center and FACES programs.”

A personal video message from actor Robert Redford was shown at the event, highlighting his commitment to the FACES mission and recognizing the Harlans. The evening also featured “Orange is the New Black” and “Unsolved” actor Michael Harney as the special guest speaker, sharing his firsthand experience working with Dr. Devinsky and unwavering support of the FACES programs.